If you are an outdoors enthusiast you have most likely heard of the Leave No Trace principles. And if not, you are about to be introduced to them. Regardless, it is always good to have a referesser so we can make sure we are preserving the outdoors so that it can last for years and years to come.
There are Seven Principles which one should uphold while on the trail, but in reality, even when off.
Plan Ahead and Prepare Before heading out, make sure you are adequately prepared. This means ensuring you have the right type of clothing depending on the weather, a map or GPS device, WATER, food, and making sure others know where you are going. It is so very important to have an itinerary before heading out and it is also good practice to give a copy of it to a friend or family member so someone knows where you are in case something were to go wrong. Research the area in which you will be visiting and check any special requirements they may have (for instance in the Sierra you are required to carry a bear canister).
Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces Stay on the trail, and camp in pre established camps or when this is not possible, find durable surfaces (this can be a dirt patch or even a large flat rock). Never camp in meadows or on vegetation.
Dispose of Waste Properly What you pack in, you MUST pack out. This includes ALL trash and TP! Yes you heard me right. Do not bury your TP. Apart from packing out everything you pack in, disposing of waste also means not washing dishes or clothing within 200 feet of all water sources. Same goes for the toilet, 200 feet or more away from all water sources, trails and campsites. If you have to poop, make sure you are digging a hole 6 to 8 inches deep and when you have finished, make sure to cover it up.
Leave What You Find I know it can be very tempting sometimes but do not alter nature. This also includes refraining from building cairns or wind shelters.
Minimize Campfire Impacts Do not cut down trees or break off branches in order to start a fire. Instead, collect dead twigs and small branches. Do not burn trash. Make sure you are following all fire regulations. During dry seasons campfires are usually banned so be sure to check before you head out on your adventure.
Respect Wildlife Do not feed wildlife and do not approach them.
Be Considerate of Other Visitors Lastly, be considerate. Don't blast music from a speaker, keep voices at a reasonable level (especially at night), yield to faster moving hikers or those who have the right of way. Only by respecting others can we hike our own hike.
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